Make adventure your top priority this summer by creating an epic summer itinerary that will take you to some of Pennsylvania's hottest places. Whether you prefer to take things slow by meandering down a lazy river or you're in the mood for fast-paced excitement by zooming down a mountain slide, here are nine of the best day trips in Pennsylvania.
Spend a leisurely day meandering down the lazy river on an inner tube. Rent an inner tube - rates usually vary between weekdays and weekends - and hitch a shuttle ride with Coal Tubin' for a day of adventure. Short runs down the river take approximately 90 minutes while long runs last around three hours. Get all of the details on the official website of Coal Tubin'.
Climb aboard the Appalachian Express Mountain Coaster and zip and zoom down hills and around corners. After riding Pennsylvania's only mountain coaster at Camelback Mountain Adventures, try another outdoor adventure such as zip lining, riding a segway, and a taking on the treetop obstacle course. Camelback Mountain Resort is also home to an epic waterpark. A day just might not be enough time to do everything on your wish list, so you might want to make it a weekend getaway. Learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Express and all of the resort activities on the official website of Camelback Mountain Resort.
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Dingman Falls Waterfall, the second largest waterfall in Pennsylvania, and guess what? You don't even have to hike to get there. Simply follow the wooden boardwalk, wheelchair and stroller accessible, for .04 of a mile. Take a rest on one of the benches along the way before the waterfall comes into full view. For an overhead view of Dingman Falls, climb the wooden staircase. Just make sure you don't forget your camera, and be prepared for crowds if you go on a warm Pennsylvania day. Head over to the official website of the National Park Service to learn more about
Stroll through the enchanted Chanticleer Garden where water gently rolls in the brooks and bright flowers sprout in the Asian garden, the teacup garden, and the pond garden. Relax on a stone bench or a wooden chair as you admire your surroundings. Join a guided tour of or explore Chanticleer House on your own after wandering through the gardens. The enchanted garden, which is just a 30-minute drive from Philadelphia, is open seasonally. You must make parking reservations ahead of time. Visit the official website of Chanticleer Garden for season opening date, days, hours, and more information. You can also make parking reservations right on the website.
Play among the trees on this treetop obstacle course in Elmwood Park Zoo. The Treetop Adventures features more than 50 challenges and zip lines, one of which will take you directly over the bison exhibit. Adult and kids adventures are available and for an even more thrilling experience, try the night adventures when the sun sets. Reservations are required, and you can fill a waiver out online before you head to the zoo. See a list of challenge courses; make reservations, and fill out a waiver on the official website of
Breathe in the sweet aroma of lavender as you enjoy a relaxing stroll through the lavender fields at Peace Valley Lavender Farm. Pick your own bouquet from more than 3,000 lavender plants and stop for a quick visit with Lily, the resident pooch. Peace Valley Lavender Farms also features a gift shop. If you can't make it to the farm, you can purchase lavender-themed items from the online shop. Here's the official website of Peace Valley Lavender Farm.
Spend a delightfully relaxing day in America's smallest city - Parker, PA. The enchanting city of a little more than 800 residents sits along the Allegheny River and offers boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Stop by one of the cozy restaurants for lunch or explore the town on foot. Plan your visit on the official website of Parker, PA.
8. Climb aboard this mountain train for a scenic tour.
Soak up breathtaking views of the Pennsylvania's mountains and Lehigh Gorge aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad. The 70-minute train ride will take you from Jim Thorpe to Lehigh Gorge State Park and back. Well-behaved dogs are permitted on the train. On select weekend days from April through September, and in November, you can bring your bike along on one of the special bike trains. (Bikes are also available to rent.) Hitch a ride on the train to nearby Lehigh Gorge State Park then bike back to Jim Thorpe on the Lehigh Gorge Rail-Trail. View a list of scenic train rides, special events, and book your trip on the official website of Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.
Gear up for a summer of adventure by hitting the road on some of the best day trips in Pennsylvania. What are your favorite Pennsylvania day trips? Let us know in the comments!
With the world as noisy as it is, I know I can always escape the stress by spending a bit of time outdoors. One of the things that I'm continuously reminded of is just how many outdoor spaces - from neighborhood parks to nature preserves - there are to explore in all corners of the state. With its diverse landscapes, various wildlife, and short and sweet trails, this nature sanctuary in Pennsylvania is a must-visit in any season.
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Whether you have all day or just an hour or so to spare, you'll quickly realize that Black Rock Sanctuary in Phoenixville provides an easy and relaxing way to explore.
The nature sanctuary is open 364 days a year from 8 a.m. to sunset. It is closed on Christmas Day.
While it's rather snug at just 119 acres, each acre is packed with scenic beauty - from a meadow of wildflowers to ducks floating on the one-acre pond.
Two easy trails meander through the nature sanctuary. At nearly a mile, the Meadow Trail will lead you through the forest and past ponds and a meadow, where you might just spot...
An ADA-accessible path, the Interpretive Trail tallies .80 miles and promises something for everyone. Stop along the way to learn more about the sanctuary from the seven interactive stations.
If you enjoy fishing, bring your gear. You'll happen upon a pond that's popular with catch-and-release fishing near the halfway point of this short but sweet trail. The pond predominately features largemouth bass, but you might catch (and release) bluegills and sunfish, too.
Have you been to this nature sanctuary in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! After all that fresh air, you've likely worked up a mighty appetite. Head over to Nook & Kranny Cafe, a quaint restaurant in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, for a hearty bite to eat.
Why not spend more time exploring Phoenixville? Book a stay at a local Vrbo and make a weekend of it.
Summer in Pennsylvania is much like the rest of the seasons: Unpredictable. How many times do we wake up to chilly temperatures and gray skies only to have the sun push the clouds aside while the temperature creeps higher and higher? What about stormy summer afternoons? We know how to go with the flow, taking whatever comes our way as we pack our schedules with some of the best things to do in Pennsylvania in summer. Whether you're scouting out the best summer vacation destinations or free things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, you'll find plenty to do all season long.
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Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Pennsylvania
From its big cities to small towns, Pennsylvania is the place to be during the hottest months of the year. The best summer vacation destinations in Pennsylvania promise something for everyone - lounging on a sandy beach, cooling off at a popular waterpark, and riding the rapids on a raging river.
Need To Know: If you're all about spending days sunbathing on the sandy shore, you won't find more beaches anywhere else.
Long, lazy beach days await on the shores in Erie, home to Presque Isle State Park's 13 sandy beaches, some of which feature lifeguards and concession stands. Even if you're not exactly a beach bum, you'll find a ton to do in this Northwestern Pennsylvania city. Enjoy an adrenaline rush at Waldameer Park and Water World; visit the adorable residents at the Erie Zoo, and dine lakeside at one of Erie's many restaurants. You'll find so many family things to do in Pennsylvania in summer that you'll likely plan a return visit.
Need To Know: Hershey is one of the top family-friendly destinations in Pennsylvania.
Savor every sweet (quite literally) moment of your time in the chocolate town of Hershey. Bursting with fun things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, Hershey promises so much to do, from thrills as you ride at Hersheypark to wandering through Hershey Gardens. Create your own candy bar at Hershey's Chocolate World, a must-visit attraction that also features a free chocolate tour.
Need To Know: Roads can sometimes be washed out going to the park, so keep an eye on conditions before heading over, especially after a lot of recent rain.
You can easily spend a day, a weekend, or longer exploring the natural beauty at
Ohiopyle State Park, home to three waterfalls, including Ohiopyle Falls and Cucumber Falls (neither requires hiking). Bring your swimming gear for a ride down Meadow Run Natural Waterslides (it can get bumpy, so you might get a little banged up). The Western Pennsylvania State Park features nearly 80 miles of hiking trails, whitewater boating, and plenty of quiet spots to picnic. Camping is also popular at this state park that boasts a full menu of fun things to do in Pennsylvania in summer.
Best Beaches & Lakes To Visit In Pennsylvania This Summer
One of the best ways to beat the scorching heat of a summer day in Pennsylvania is to throw down our beach towels, pitch our umbrellas, and wade in our favorite lake. Here are three sandy beaches in Pennsylvania that you might want to add to your itinerary when planning a beach day.
Need To Know: The beach and lake are open daily. Both day and season passes are available to purchase.
Treat yourself to an old-fashioned beach day at Mount Gretna Lake & Beach. Whether you prefer a chill beach day lying on the sandy shore or getting your adrenaline rushing diving into the lake, you'll find just what you're looking for at this popular Pennsylvania beach. Kayak, canoe, or tube on the lake; have a picnic, or indulge in summer's favorite goodies at the snack bar.
Need To Know: The lake is ADA-accessible with a ramp into the water and a beach wheelchair.
Pack your beach gear for a day at Laurel Lake, nestled in Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset. You'll find plenty of room to drop your beach towel or chair on the 1,200-foot sandy beach. The lake measures five feet at its deepest point, but swimming is only allowed in the buoyed areas. (There are no lifeguards.) Bring a picnic or grab a bite from the concession stand.
Need To Know: The beach is seasonal and swim at your own risk.
Soak up the summer sun at FJ Sayers Lake at Bald Eagle State Park, one of the best free things to do in Pennsylvania in summer. The 1,200-foot sandy beach is ADA-accessible and features such amenities as a playground, changing rooms, and public restrooms. Swimming, boating, and fishing are popular lake activities. If a day isn't enough, stay in a yurt or a camping cottage at the campground, or book a room at The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle.
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Parks To Visit In Pennsylvania This Summer
Summer in Pennsylvania was practically made for building sand castles on the edge of crystal-clear lakes, riding coasters that leave our hearts pounding, and zipping down waterslides to stay cool on hot afternoons. Here are just a few parks to visit in Pennsylvania this summer.
While away the hours lounging on the sandy beach or exploring Parker Dam State Park on one of its 13 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most popular Pennsylvania summer activities, including boating and picnicking, can be found at this cozy 968-acre state park. Rustic cabins are available for rent by the week during the summer.
Need To Know: The popular outdoor waterpark generally opens for the season in mid-June.
With more than 37 water attractions, Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark is the place to go for summer fun. Both daily and season passes are available for what's billed as the largest outdoor waterpark in Pennsylvania. You never have to worry about getting rained out because Camelback Mountain Resort is also home to Aquatopia, a massive indoor waterpark.
Need To Know: Knoebels is known as "America's largest free-admission amusement park."
Enjoy a throwback adventure at Knoebels Amusement Resort, an old-fashioned amusement park where admission is free. Passes are available, or you can purchase tickets just like in the good ol' days. One of the best cheap things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, Knoebels features rides for the little ones and those seeking an adrenaline rush. For a more old-school experience, ride the antique cars, the bumper cars, or the carousel. Cool off in the swimming pool; indulge in summer's tastiest treats, and play classic amusement park games.
Best Free Summer Activities In Pennsylvania
Summer in Pennsylvania doesn't have to break the bank. We can find plenty of cheap things to do in Pennsylvania in summer, but even better? Some of the most amazing free things to do in summer in Pennsylvania promise one-of-a-kind experiences and unforgettable memories.
Need To Know: Falls Trail leads to all 21-named waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park.
You won't find a more enchanting way to spend a summer day than following the nearly eight-mile Falls Trail through Ricketts Glen State Park. The challenging trail will lead you to 21 glorious waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. If you don't have the time, opt for the 3.2-mile Highland Loop Trail that offers a glimpse of most of the park's cascades. While the waterfalls are inarguably the highlight of Ricketts Glen State Park, the park also offers such amenities as a sandy beach, boating, horseback riding, and picnicking.
Need To Know: Bring a blanket and a jacket as it can get quite cool, even during the summer, on the mountaintop.
Home to some of the darkest skies on the eastern seaboard, Cherry Springs State Park is the place for stargazing in Pennsylvania. The stargazing field sits perched atop a 2,300-foot mountain. The Night Sky Public Viewing Area is ideal if you're planning to spend a few hours gazing at the nighttime sky. Serious astronomers tend to use The Overnight Astronomy Observation Field.
Need To Know: The swimming hole is deep, which can be dangerous, so make sure you're a strong swimmer if you decide to venture into the water.
A beautifully blue swimming hole in Forbes State Forest, Blue Hole sits along the moderately challenging 2.7-mile Cole Run Trail. Sturdy shoes are necessary, and some hikers recommend hiking poles to make the journey easier. The swimming hole is popular, so don't be surprised if it is crowded.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In Pennsylvania
Summer just wouldn't be summer without a few trips to our favorite county, community, and neighborhood fairs. Some of my best memories from childhood are of going to our local firemen's carnival and church fairs (homemade pierogis!). Reclaim a bit of that childhood magic with a visit to one of the best summer events and festivals in Pennsylvania. Here are a few to get you started.
Need To Know: Some concert tickets are already on sale.
Celebrate summer at the annual Clearfield County Fair, an epic event that runs for nine days in July. The county fair features everything we remember from childhood: an old-fashioned carnival, good eats, and a full schedule of live entertainment. Highlights of the 2024 entertainment lineup include Rick Springfield, Riley Green, and Warren Zeiders.
Mark your calendar for the Clarion County Fair, which rolls into town for seven days in late July each year. From bingo to laser tag, the family-friendly fair features something for everyone. A tractor pull, a truck pull, a pet show, and a demolition derby are some of the fair's highlights.
Need To Know: Tickets are already on sale for the 2024 event.
If you've ever wanted to fly in a hot air balloon, now's your chance. The Chester County Hot Air Balloon Festival is coming to Kennett Square for an epic weekend in mid-June. The weekend will feature balloon flights, balloon glows, and a balloon you can walk through. Both tethered and untethered flights will be available. That's just the start of the fun that also includes live entertainment, kids' activities, and delicious food.
Summer tends to go by so quickly that we usually want to hold onto to every golden moment. What are you favorite things to do in Pennsylvania in summer? What would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments! If you plan on hitting the road this summer, check out the OIYS road trip essentials packing list.
